cupcakes & water slides.

Three birthday's down, one to go! We saved the littlest Terps' big day for last, and she's not so little any more, now she's T-H-R-E-E!

Our Mady brings so much joy into our household. The big kids have delighted in her from day one and love to look out for her. Mommy and Daddy hold her just a little bit longer than necessary, and we have savored first the baby moments and now the toddler moments because we know she's the last one to come up through the ranks. She can be strong willed at times, but mostly she's just funny and sweet.

We celebrated her birthday a little early because of our weekend plans. It got confusing trying to explain to her which day was her actual birthday, what with the seemingly endless birthday-ing and cupcake eating, so we kind of gave up. We'll try to clarify that better for her next year.

Madelyn Mae, you are dearly loved, and I'm so glad we were able to celebrate YOU. We love that you're three now, but please stay little always, OK?

We had scarcely wiped the frosting off our lips when it was time to pack up and head up north. The kids went to school for half a day on Friday and then we loaded up the minivan with two moms and five kids (the dads drove up a little later). We met up with a couple other families in a beautiful mountain cabin and settled in for the weekend. Our first order of business? Why another round of birthday cake, of course.

The evenings were spent wrangling kids into bed, playing Pit, raiding the kitchen, and laughing into the wee hours of the night. On Saturday we spent the day at Avalanche Bay, an indoor water park, and played until we crashed. I love spending time with these people - no matter what chaos surrounds us, there is always a relaxed, easy-going, happy vibe. 

We almost didn't take this picture...there were cries of protest from those of us still in some version of our pajamas...but I'm so glad we did. Yes we look a little sleep deprived complete with bags under our eyes {for future reference, five wiggly boys in four bunk beds + three giggly girls in a walk in closet + three toddlers sleeping with mommies and daddies = not a lot of sleep for anyone involved} but I can also see our full, happy hearts.

I'm thankful for our three year old, some time away from the hustle and bustle of every day life, and these dear, dear friends.

Sayonara, Birthday Season! Until next year!